Electric switch of the slow-make, slow-break type



Sept. 12, 1939. G. J. MEUER 2,172,395

ELECTRIC SWITCH OF THE SLOWMAKE, SLOW-BREAK TYPE Filed May 26, 1937 2 Sheets-Sheet l Sept. 12, 1939. G, J. MEUER 2,172,395

ELECTRIC SWITCH OF THE SLOW'MAKE, SLOWBREAK TY Filed May 26, 1957 2 Sheets-Sheet 2 & m

Patented Sept. 12, 1939 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE ELECTRIC SWITCH OF THE SLOW-MAKE, SLOW-BREAK TYPE- George J. Meuer, Milwaukee, Wis., assignor to Cutler-Hammer, Inc., Milwaukee, Wis., a corporation of Delaware This invention relates to improvements in electric switches of the slow-make, slow-break type.

A primary object of the invention is to provide switches of the aforementioned character of relatively small size which are adapted for control of relatively high wattage alternating current circuits or alternatively for control of relatively lower wattage direct current circuits, without requiring any change in the construction or operation thereof.

Another object is to provide switches of novel form for attachment to and use in combination with radio rheostats and the like. Y

Another object is to provide switches of the aforementioned character which are extremely simple in construction and reliable in operation.

Another object is to provide novel means enabling tandem mounting of a plurality of the switches to provide for use of a common operating element therefor.

Another object is to generally improve the details of construction and assembly of the parts and the operative characteristics of switches of the aforementioned character.

Other objects and advantages of the inventiton will hereinafter appear.

The accompanying drawings illustrate certain embodiments of the invention which will now be described, it being understood that the embodiments illustrated are susceptible of changes in respect of certain structural details thereof without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

In the drawings,

Figure 1 is a top plan view (double scale) of a slow-make, slow-break rotary switch of the single pole type as constructed in accordance with my invention,-the switch parts being shown in circuit closing position.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view, in separated relation, of the parts of the switch shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a bottom plan view (actual size) of the switch shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

Fig. 4 is a view, partly in vertical section and partly in elevation, of a switch like that shown in Figs. 1 to 3 as combined with a radio rheostat of corresponding peripheral contour.

Fig. 5 is a fragmentary vertical sectional view, on the irregular line 55 of Fig. 1.

Fig. 6 is a view similar to Fig. 5, but showing the manner in which the contacts are separated for interruption of the circuit to be controlled thereby.

Fig. 7 is a view similar to Fig. l,--bvt showi the addition of a .pair of contacts to provide a switch of the double pole type.

Fig. 8 is a fragmentary view, partly in vertical section and partly in elevation, of a radio rheostat having mounted in tandem relation thereto a double pole switch like that shown in Fig. '7 and a single pole switch like that shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. 9 is a side elevation, with the mounting bushing and the operating shaft broken away, i1- lustrating the stamped sheet metal housing member and the rheostat and switches retained in as sembled relation thereby.

Fig. 10 is a top plan view, actual size. of a modified form of slow-make, slow-break rotatry switch of the single pole type.

Fig. 11 is an enlarged top plan view of the insulating base and contacts of the switch shown in Fig. 10,-the insulating actuating member and the metal bearing washer for the latter being removed.

F g. 12 is a perspective view in separated relation of the several parts of the switch shown in Fig. 10,and illustrating the manner in which such parts are assembled.

Fig. 13 is a bottom plan view of the switch shown in Figs. 10 to 12, illustrating the means for preventing relative rotation between the insulating base and the metal housing.

Fig. 14 is a fragmentary view, partly-in e1eva tion and partly in vertical section, illustrating the manner of attaching the switch of Figs. '10 to 13 to the metal casing of a rheostat or the like of substantially corresponding peripheral contour, and

Fig. 15 is a bottom plan view of the insulating actuating member of the switch of Figs. 10 to 14.

Referring first to the form of switch illustrated in Figs. 1 to 6, the numeral 20 designates a molded insulating base of substantially cylindrical form,said base having a substantially cylindrical recess 2| formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof. Positioned concentrically with respect to main recess 2| and opening to the latter is an auxiliary cylindrical recess 22. P0 sitioned concentrically with respect to recess 22 and opening to the latter is a still smaller recess 23,-the bottom wall of the recess 23 consisting of a relatively thin diaphragm 24 (Figs. 2 and 4) formed integrally with base 20. When a single switch is combined with a rheostat in the manner shown in Fig. 4 diaphragm 24 is permitted to remain intact,-whereas such diaphragm may be readily removed by breaching to provide clearance for the operating shaft, in respect of the intermediate switch, in a tandem mounting arrangement such as shown in Figs. 8 and 9.

A one-piece combined con-tact and wiring terminal member 25 (Fig. 2) is provided with a contact portion 26 of arcuate contour which is seated fiatwise upon the bottom surface 21 of recess 2|,-4said member having a downwardly extending portion 28 which penetrates a correspondingly shaped opening 29 in base 28, and portion 28 has a perforated lower end 29 exposed below the lower surface of base 28 to provide for attachment of a circuit wire. Portion 26 is provided with an opening 38 which registers with an opening 3| in base 28 to accommodate the hollow shank of an eyelet or rivet 32 which is upset over portion 26, as shown in Fig. 1, to rigidly secure member 25 in position. Offset upwardly from the bottom wall 2'! of recess 2| is a flat ledge 33. A second one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal member 34 is provided with a flat portion 35 adapted to seat upon said ledge,said member having a downwardly extending portion 36 which penetrates a correspondingly shaped opening 3'! in base 20, and portion 36 has a perforated lower end 38 below the lower surface of base 20 to provide for attachment of a second circuit wire. Portion 35 is provided with an opening 39 which registers with an opening 4|] in base 28 to accommodate the hollow shank of an eyelet or rivet 4| which is upset over portion 35 to rigidly secure member 34 in position. Extending from portion 35 substantially in the plane thereof is a resilient arm portion 42, the free end 43 of which is arranged in the form of an arc'concentric to the center of recess 2|, as best illustrated in Fig. 1. Said free end 43 is also formed to provide upon the lower surface thereof a,

downwardly converging double-inclined cam surface 44 (Figs. 2, and 6).

Extending laterally from arm portion 42, in a direction whereby its free end 45 overlies the contact portion 26 of member 25, is a resilient arm 46. Said end 45 is preferably provided with a downwardly extending cone-shaped boss 4?, and arm 46 is bent downwardly to an extent such that boss 41 is normally biased into engagement with said contact portion 26, as best illustrated in Fig. 5.

Either prior to or subsequent to attachment of member 34 to base 20 I insert within auxiliary recess 22 the molded insulating actuating member or cam plate 48. Member 48 comprises a disk-like portion 49 which fits rotatably within recess 22 in a relation substantially flush with the bottom wall 21 of recess 2| ,as best illustrated in Figs. 5 and 6. Member 48 is provided with a centrally located cylindrical extension 50, the upper end of which is preferably located in a plane slightly below the upper surface of base 20, as best illustrated in Fig. 4. Extending axially through member 48 is an opening 5| of approximately rectangular form in horizontal cross section,said opening being adapted to accommodate an extension 52 of substantially similar form in horizontal cross section,said extension being carried by the rheostat operating shaft 53 whereby member 48 is rotated therewith. Any suitable means such as a radial lug 54 fixed to shaft 53 is adapted for engagement with a downwardly extending lug 55 carried by the metal housing or support 56 (Fig. 4) to limit shaft 53 to rotation through substantially less than 360 degrees, and to correspondingly limit the degree of rotation of member 48.

Formed integrally with the upper surface of disk-like portion 49 and with a portion of the periphery of extension 58 is a cam element 51 having upwardly convergent surfaces 58 and 59 with a shallow V-shaped notch 60 therebetween.

With reference to Fig. 1, it is contemplated that cam member 48 shall be rotated in a clockwise direction from a position wherein the doubleinclined cam 44 upon the lower surface of end 43 of arm 42 engages in the aforementioned notch 60 in cam element 51, whereby the cam surface 59 is rendered active to gradually lower the end 43 of arm 42, with consequent gradual lowering of boss 4! on contact arm 46 into engagement with the fiat contact portion 26, as shown in Figs. 1 and 5.

In like manner, upon counterclockwise movement of cam member 48 (Fig. 1) it is apparent that the inclined surface 59 will cooperate with the cam 44 upon the lower surface of end 43 of arm 42 to gradually lift or elevate said end,

-which finally engages in notch 68, as illustrated in Fig. 6,-in which position of the parts contact boss 47 on arm 46 is separated from contact portion 26 to interrupt the controlled circuit.

It is to be understood that with the switch parts in the respective positions illustrated in Fig. 6 further counterclockwise movement of member 48 will be prevented by the aforedescribed means for limiting rotation of rheostat operating shaft 53. Moreover, it is to be understood that rotation of member 48 is limited to substantially less than 360 degrees-with the result that cam surface 58 does not cooperate with the end 43 of arm 42. However, cam surface 58 may be made to function in the same manner as cam surface 59; as in a switch wherein it is desired to effect closure of the contacts upon counterclockwise movement of member 48 and opening of said contacts upon clockwise movement of said member.

The non-arcing characteristics and other advantages, such as low torque operation, increased life, etc., of a slow-make, slow-break switch for control of alternating current circuits of the character herein contemplated will be obvious to those skilled in this art. It may be pointed out, however, that a switch of the character and size aforedescribed has a rating or'capacity for controlling 3 amperes at 125 volts A. (3., 1 ampere at 250 volts A. C., and an alternative rating of 15 amperes at 12 volts D. C.,-which latter rating of course adapts the switch for use in connection with automobile radio sets.

To simplify and facilitate attachment of the switch in operative relationship to the rheostat 6| (Fig. 4) I prefer to provide base 26 with a pair of diametrically opposed Vertical grooves 62 and 63 of arcuate form in horizontal cross section,-said grooves being respectively adapted to receive, in a substantially flush relationship, the correspondingly shaped downwardly extending arms 64 and 55 (Fig. 4) of the stamped sheet threaded hollow metal bushing TI which receives a nut (not shown) for clamping of the combination device to a panel or other suitable support. To assist in said clamping operation, and to eliminate the necessity for the usual additional positioning nut, I prefer to provide housing 56 with a plurality of sheared and upwardly struck lugs,the use of two of such lugs being illustrated at I2 and I3 in Fig. 4.

In assembling the rheostat GI and switch 29 I prefer to interpose therebetween a punched and stamped sheet metal plate I4, the latter having perforated and upwardly bent ends 15 and I6 (Fig. 4) to provide a proper interlocking connection between the same and arms 64 and 65. I also prefer to position on opposite sides of member I4 a pair of insulating plates 11 and 18 of annular form.

As shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 3 base 20 is additionally provided with a pair of recesses I9 and to accommodate the wiring terminal portions of a second pair of one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal members of the form shown at 8| and 82 in Fig. 7;a pair of recesses 83 and 84 being provided to accommodate the hollow shanks of rivets 85 and 86 (Fig. 7). With reference to Fig. 3, however, it may be pointed out that each of the recesses 19, 80, 83 and 84 is preferably provided with a relatively thin integral diaphragm, and the diaphragms are permitted to remain intact when a single pole switch of the character shown in Fig. l is formed. With such an arrangement, as best illustrated in Fig. 3, the switch base 20 is rendered substantially dusttight when employed in constructing such a single pole switch. The aforementioned diaphragms may be readily removed by breaching to provide for assembly to the base of parts adapted to form a double pole switch,whereas such parts when attached to base 20 are adapted to substantially close the openings formed in the latter.

As shown in Fig. 4, the wiring terminal portions 28 and 36 are permitted to extend axially of base 20, whereas if desired such terminal portions may be bent to extend laterally or radially of base 20, in the manner indicated in dotted lines in Fig. 3. The lower surface of base 20 is provided with recesses to accommodate the laterally extending terminal portions in a relation substantially flush with said lower surface. This arrangement is particularly desirable in respect of the intermediate switch or switches in a tandem mounting combination such as shown in Figs. 8 and 9, and in any installation where the over-all depth of the combination device must be minimized.

The double pole switch illustrated in Fig. '7 is in most respects identical with the single pole switch of Figs. 1 to 6, and like parts have been given like numerals of reference. In Fig. 7 a pair of one-piece combined contact and terminal members is added,the same being designated in general by the numerals 8| and 82, as aforementioned. As will be apparent, the member 8| may be formed from a blank identical with that employed in forming the aforedescribed member 25,the terminal portion 81 of member 8| being bent in an opposite direction from its flat contact portion 88,-as compared with the direction of bending of terminal portion 28 with respect to the aforementioned contact portion 26.

Member 82 has a flat portion 89 thereof seated upon ledge 33, with a terminal portion 98 bent downwardly at a right angle thereto. Extending to provide rotary clearance for the aforementioned cam element 51. Said free end is formed or bent as indicated to provide upon the lower surface thereof a pair of downwardly converging cam surfaces; and the disk-like portion 49 of cam member 48 is provided adjacent to the periphery thereof with an arcuate cam formation 93 having upwardly convergent cam surfaces 94 and 95 with a shallow substantially V-shaped notch 96 formed therebetween.

Extending laterally from arm 9|, in a direction whereby its free end 91 overlies the contact portion 88 of member BI, is a resilient arm 98. Said end 91 is preferably provided with a downwardly extending cone-shaped boss 99, and arm 98 is bent downwardly to an extent such that boss 99 is normally biased into engagement with said contact portion 88. It is to be understood that in Fig. 7 cam member 48 has been moved in a clockwise direction to the rotary position thereof illustrated. The aforementioned inclined surface 59 and 94 are so spaced from each other that upon a given degree of counterclockwise movement of member 48 said surfaces will simultaneously engage the respective ends 43 and 92 of arms 42 and 9| to gradually lift the contact bosses 41 and 99 from contact portions 26 and 88. At the limit of such counterclockwise movement the double-inclined cams on the lower surfaces of ends 43 and 92 will enter the respective notches 80 and 96 in cam elements 51 and 93. Terminal portions 81 and are provided with perforations I00 and IOI to facilitate attachment of the circuit wires.

The combination device illustrated in Figs. 8 and 9 is essentially like that shown in Fig. 4, with the exception that a double pole switch like that shown in Fig. '7 is positioned in tandem relation adjacent to rheostat 6|, and a single pole switch like that shown in Figs. 1 to 6 is positioned in tandem relation adjacent to said double pole switch. Such an arrangement merely requires a stamped sheet metal housing or support 56 having opposed arms 84 8'5 of the required length to accommodate both switches, the inwardly bent lugs 61 I0 and 10 corresponding with the securing lugs aforedescribed. If desired, an insulating plate I02 of annular form may be interposed between the two switches shown in Figs. 8 and 9. Nevertheless it is to be understood that the carrying parts of the adjacent switches are so spaced from each other as to enable tandem mounting of such switches without the necessity for an insulating plate I02 therebetween. Such an arrangement would further reduce to a slight degree the over-all depth of the combination device illustrated in Figs. 7 and 8.

The wiring terminal portions of the double pole switch employed in Figs. 8 and 9 are, of course, bent to extend radially therefrom in the manner best illustrated in Fig. '7, and it is to be understood that the diaphragm 24 of base 20 of the double pole switch when used in this combination device is broached or otherwise removed to provide rotary clearance for the shaft extension 52, which is substantially longer than the shaft extension 52 in Fig. 4, to provide for cooperation thereof with the cam member of the single pole switch of the combination. If desired, of course, two double pole switches or two single pole switches may be employed instead of the arrangement illustrated in Figs. 8 and 9. The number of switches connected in tandem may be increased or decreased,with a corresponding variation in the length of the housing and the shaft extension. Where two sets of switch contacts are provided, it may be found desirable for a given installation to provide a special form of operating cam,that is to say, an arrangement of cam elements such that the sets of contacts are opened and closed sequentially, or upon different degrees of rotation of the cam member. Various other modifications will be apparent or will be suggested to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description.

The modified form of rotary slow-make, slowbreak switch illustrated in Figs. 10 to 15 is of the single pole type. By the construction and arrangement of parts shown in these figures, the peripheral dimensions of the switch may be still further reduced, while maintaining the depth of the insulating base of the switch substantially the same as in the switches hereinbefore described. The full size showing of the switch parts in Figs. 10 and 15, for example, indicates the exceedingly small size of this modified form of switch. Moreover, it is to be understood that the current carrying and interrupting capacity of the switch of Figs. 10 to 15 will be substantially as high as that of the switches aforedescribed.

The molded insulating base I03 of this switch is of substantially cylindrical form, and the same is provided with a cylindrical recess I opening to the upper surf-ace thereof. The bottom wall I of recess I04 is provided with a depression I06 to accommodate, in a plane slightly below said bottom wall I05, a fiat, substantially triangular portion I0I of a one-piece combined contact and'wiringterminal member. Base I03 is provided with an opening I08 (Fig. 12) to accommodate the hollow shank of a rivet I00, which shank penetrates an opening in and is upset over said flat portion I01, as shown in Fig. 11. Base I03 is provided with a substantially rectangular opening I I0 which accommodates the wiring terminal portion III extending downwardly at a right angle to flat portion I0'I,said portion III being provided with an opening H2 to facilitate attachment of a circuit wire.

Extending upwardly at a right angle to fiat portion I01 is a portion H3, and extending substantially horizontally from portion I I3 is a portion H4 of arcuate contour. The bottom wall I05 of recess I 0 3 is further provided with a depression I I5which is located in substantially the same plane as depression I06. Communicating with depression I I5 and extending from the latter, in the form of an arc, to the depression I06 is a relatively deeper depression H6, Seated within depression H5 in a plane slightly below the bottom wall I05 of recess I04 is the flat portion II! of a second one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal member. A rivet H8 has its hollow shank extending upwardly through alined' openings in base I03 and fiat portion III and'is upset over the latter to retain the same in assembled position. Base I03 is provided with a second substantially rectangular opening H9 which accommodates the wiring terminal portion I20 extending downwardly at a right angle to flat portion I II,said portion I20 being provided with an opening I2I to facilitate attachment of a terminal wire] Extending in the form of an are from flat portion H1, and normally positioned substantially in the plane thereof is a resilient arm I22 which overlies the depression H6. Arm I22 is provided adjacent to the free end thereof with an' upwardly inclined portion I23 which forms a cam surface, and extending horizontally from portion I23 is a portion I24, a part of which underlies the aforementioned portion H4, as best illustrated in Figs. 11 and 14.

The molded insulating actuating member of the switch, as shown in Figs. 12, 14 and 15, comprises a disk-like portion I25 having formed on the lower surface thereof a "concentrically arranged cylindrical extension I26 of relatively smaller diameter than portion I25 but of substantially greater depth or thickness than the latter, as best illustrated in Fig. 14. Extending from extension I26 to the periphery of portion I25 (and of slightly greater width at said periphery) is an integral portion I21 which provides a pair of spaced substantially radially arranged vertical shoulders I28 and I20,-it being understood that the lower surfaces of extension I28 and portion I27 are located in the same plane. The arrangement is preferably such that the lower surface of extension I26 bears at all times upon the bottom wall I05 of recess I04,the portion I 21 during a part of the rotary movement of the cam member being adapted to overlie the resilient arm I22.

Thus, with reference to Fig. 11, it is to be understood that the portion I20 is so formed and positioned as to normally provide for engagement of a part thereof with the lower surface of the aforementioned contact portion H4. Assuming assembly of the parts as shown in Fig. 14, and further assuming counterclockwise rotation of cam member I25, with reference to Fig. 11, it is obvious that when shoulder I28 of portion I2'I engages the cam surface formed by inclined portion I23 the horizontal portion I24 will be gradually depressed and thereby disengaged from contact portion Ht. Portion I27 finally engages portion I24, as shown in Fig. 14, and shoulder I28 of the cam member engages the radial edge of contact portion I I4 to positively limit the degree of counterclockwise rotation of the cam member. The switch parts will remain in the positions thereof illustrated in Fig. 14 pending positive rotation of cam member I25 in a clockwise direction.

Upon such clockwise rotation of cam member I25 portion I21 thereof cooperates with cam surface I23 to permit gradual elevation of porticn I24 into engagement with contact portion H4 to complete the controlled circuit',such elevation being effected by the upward bias of the resilient arm I22 under these conditions. After portion I21 of the cam member has clear-ed cam surface I23 continued clockwise rotation of the cam member will have no effect upon the relative positions of the contact portions of the switch. Such clockwise rotation of cam member I 25, is, however, positively limited by engagement of radial shoulder I29 on portion I27 with the upwardly extending portion H3 of the stationary contact. Rotation of the cam member I25 is therefore limited to substantially less than 360 degrees.

Cam member I25 is provided with a centrally arranged opening or recess I30 to receive a driving element of substantially corresponding form in cross section. In Fig. 14 I have shown the switch as combined with a rheostat or the like the metal housing of which is designated by the numeral I3I. In such a combination the driving means for cam member I25 preferably comprises an extension I32 of the rheostat shaft (not.

shown) The supporting means for the switch preferably comprises a substantially cylindrical metal shell I33 into which the insulating base I03 is freely insertable downwardly. Shell I33 is provided at its lower end with an inwardly extending flange I34 against which the lower surface I35 of base I03 is adapted to seat. Flange I34 is preferably cut away at I36 and I31 to insure proper electrical clearance between the same and wiring terminal portions III and II9 (Fig. 13). Flange I34 is also preferably provided with an extension or lug I38 which is accommodated in a recess I39 of corresponding shape in the lower surface I35 of the base, to insure against rotation of the latter relatively to shell I33.

Shell I33 is preferably provided at its upper end with four spaced lugs I40, I4I, I42 and I43. After insertion of base I03, with its switch parts, into shell I33, I insert a flat metal disk or annulus I44 which overlies the upper surface of base I I13 and the cam member,whereupon the lugs I40 to I43 are bent inwardly over disk I44, as

shown in Figs. 10 and 14, to retain cam member diametrically opposed lugs I45 and I46, which are adapted to enter correspondingly shaped openings in the bottom wall I4'I of the rheostat housing, and are bent inwardly over the inner surface of said bottom wall, as shown in Fig. 14, to retain the switch in assembled relation to the rheostat. Disk I44 is provided with an opening I48 and the bottom wall I4! is provided with an opening I49, said openings affording rotary clearance for the shaft extension I32.

What I claim as new and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. In a rotary switch of the character described, in combination, an insulating base, a second insulating member rotatably supported with respect to said base, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to said base independently of each other, one of said contact and terminal members having a contactv portion seated flatwise upon said base, the other contact and terminal member having a resilient arm the contact portion of which overlies the contact portion first mentioned, said arm being normally biased by its own resiliency into a given position with respect to the first mentioned contact portion, said arm also having a cam surface formed thereon and extending longitudinally thereof, said second insulating member being formed for cooperation with said cam surface to effect disengagement of said contact portions in a given rotary position of said second insulating member and to effect engagement of said contact portions in all other rotary positions of said second insulating member, and a manually rotatable shaft having a continuous positive driving connection with said second insulating member to effect rotation of the latter in opposite directions selectively.

2. In a rotary switch of the character described, in combination, an insulating base member, a second insulating member rotatably supported with respect to said base member, two sets of one-piece combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to said base member, the contact portions of the respective sets being arranged in overlapping relationship to each other in planes parallel to the upper surface of said base and the terminal portions thereof being exposed at the lower surface of said base, one contact portion of each set comprising a. resilient arm whereby the same is biased into a given position with respect to the other contact portion of such set, each of said resilient arms having a cam surface formed thereon and extending longitudinally thereof, said cam surfaces being of arcuate contour and the same being radially offset from each other with respect to the center of rotation of said second insulating member, said second insulating member having parts formed integrally therewith for cooperation with said cam surfaces to effect disengagement of said sets of contact portions in a given rotary position of said second insulating member and to effect engagement of said sets of contact portions in all other rotary positions of said second insulating member, a manually operable shaft having a continuous positive driving connection with said second insulating member to effect rotation of the latter in opposite directions respectively, and means associated with said shaft to positively limit the range of rotary movement of said second insulating member.

3. In a rotary switch of the character described, in combination, a molded insulating member having a substantially circular recess formed therein, a second insulating member seated within said recess and rotatably guided by the peripheral wall of the latter, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to said first mentioned insulating member independently of each other, one of said contact and terminal members having a resilient arm the contact portion of which is arranged to overlap the contact portion of the other member, said arm being bent to normally bias said first mentioned contact portion into a given position with respect to the other contact portion, said resilient arm having a cam surface formed thereon and positioned at all times at a predetermined radial distance from the center of rotation of said second insulating member, said second insulating member being formed for cooperation with said cam surface aforementioned to effect engagement and disengagement of said contact portions in given rotary positions respectively of said second insulating member, a rotatable shaft having a continuous positive driving connection with said second insulating member to effect rotation of the latter therewith in opposite directions respectively, and associated means for limiting the range of rotary movement of said shaft,

4. In a slow-make, slow-break rotary switch for control of alternating current circuits, in combination, a molded' insulating base, an insulating member superimposed upon said base and adapted for rotation with respect thereto, a plurality of pairs of one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal members rigidly secured to said base independently of each other, one contact portion of each pair of members being resilient and the same being adapted to overlap the other contact portion of the respective pair, the resilient contact portions of said pairs being normally biased into a given relationship to the other contact portions of said pairs, said resilient contact portions having cam surfaces formed integrally therewith and respectively positioned at all times at different predetermined distances from the center of rotation of said insulating member, said insulating member being formed for cooperation with the respective cam surfaces, whereby said resilient contact portions may be moved out of said given relationship upon rotation of said insulating member, means comprising a shaft having a continuous driving connection with said insulating member for effecting rotation thereof in opposite directions respectively, and means for limiting the degree of rotation of said shaft.

5. In a switch of the character described, in combination, an insulating base member, a second insulating member rotatably supported with respect to said base member, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to e the upper surface of said base member independently of each other, one of said contact and terminal members having a resilient arm the contact portion of which is arranged to overlap the contact portion of the other member, said resilient arm and said second insulating member being formed to provide cooperating cam surfaces affording clearance between the same in any one of a number of rotary positions of said second insulating member, said cam surfaces being adapted in another rotary position of said parts to effect movement of said contact portions relatively to each other, and a rotatable shaft having a continuous driving connection with said second insulating member to effect rotation of the latter in opposite directions selectively.

6. In a switch of the character described, in combination, an insulating base member having a recess formed therein, a second insulating member rotatably seated within said recess, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to the upper surface of said base member independently of each other, one of said contact and terminal members having a resilient arm the contact portion of which is arranged to overlap the contact portion of the other member, said arm being bent downwardly to normally bias said first mentioned contact portion into en gagement with the other contact portion, said resilient arm being formed to provide a cam surface normally affording clearance for said second insulating member upon rotation of the lat ter throughout the major portion of its range, said second insulating member having a cam surface formed integrally therewith for cooperation with said cam surface aforementioned to effect disengagement of said contact portions in a given rotary position of said second insulating member, and a rotatable shaft having a continuous positive driving connection with said second insulating member to effect rotation of the latter in opposite directions respectively.

7. In a slow-make, slow-break alternating current controlling switch, in combination, a molded insulating base member having a recess formed therein, a second disk-like molded insulating member rotatably seated within said recess, a pair of one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal members located within said recess and having the terminal portions thereof exposed at the lower surface of said base, the contact portion of one of said contact and terminal members being arranged in overlapped relation to the contact portion of the other contact and terminal member, said arm being bent in a manner to normally bias said first mentioned contact portion into engagement with the other contact portion, said resilient arm being formed to provide an arcuate cam surface overlying and normally affording clearance for said second, insulating member throughout the major portion of the range of rotary movement of the latter, said second insulating member having an arcuate cam element formed 'integrally therewith at the upper surface thereof, for cooperation with said cam surface aforementioned to effect disengagement of said contact portions in a given rotary posi tion of said second insulating member, and a manually operable shaft having a continuous driving connection with said second insulating member to effect rotation of the latter in opposite directions respectively.

8. In a slow-makaslow-break switch of the double-pole type for-alternating current control, in "combination, a molded insulating base having a mainrecess formed therein and opening to one surface thereof, said base having a relatively smaller auxiliary recess formed in the bottom wall of said main recess, an insulating member rotatably seated within said auxiliary recess,

' two pairs of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to the bottom wall of said main recess in spaced relationship to each other, one member of each pair having a resilient arm a portion of which overlies said insulating member to restrain the latter against substantial endwise displacement from said auxiliary recess and a contact portion laterally offset to overlie the contact portion of the other member of its respective pair, said resilient arms being bent to normally bias the contact portions thereof into engagement with said other contact portions, said insulating member having a pair of arcuate cam surfaces formed integrally with the upper end thereof and spaced different distances from the center of rotation thereof, said resilient arms respectively having arcuate cam portions adapted for cooperation with the respective cam surfaces, said cam surfaces and cam portions being adapted to provide for lifting of said resilient arms to effect disengagement of certain of said contact portions in a given rotary position of said insulating member, and a rotatable shaft freely insertable into said insulating member and having a positive driving connection with the latter.

9. In a slow-make, slow-break switch for control of an alternating current circuit, in combination, a molded insulating base having a main recess formed therein and opening to one surface thereof, said base having a relatively smaller substantially cylindrical recess formed in the bottom wall of said main recess and opening to the latter, the bottom wall of said main recess having portions thereof located in lower and upper planes, respectively, a combined contact and wiring terminal member positioned upon and rigidly secured to said bottom wall in the lower plane of the latter, a second combined contact and wiring terminal member having a portion thereof positioned upon and rigidly secured to said bottom wall in the upper plane of the latter, the contact portion of said last mentioned member overlying the contact portion of the first mentioned member and being normally biased into engagement therewith, said last mentioned mem-- ber having an intermediate portion overlying said relatively smaller recess and said intermediate portion having a downwardly extending cam surface formed integrally therewith, a substantially cylindrical insulating member rotatably posi; tioned within said relatively smaller recess and having its upper surface arranged in a plane substantially flush with the lower plane of said bot? tom wall, said insulating member having an upwardly extending cam surface formed'integrally with the upper end thereof for cooperation with said first mentioned cam surface to eifect disengagement and engagement of said contact portions upon movement of said insulating member into and out of a given rotary position thereof, and said insulating member having means aifordsame and an operating element of suitable form.

10. A slow-make, slow-break switch adapted for control of relatively high wattage alternating current circuits or alternatively for control of relatively low wattage direct current circuits, said switch comprising a molded insulating base of substantially cylindrical form having a relatively large cylindrical main recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, said base having an auxiliary cylindrical recess formed in the bottom wall of said main recess in concentric relationship to the latter and opening thereto, the bottom wall of said auxiliary recess having a relatively small cylindrical recess formed therein, whereby a relatively thin diaphragm is provided, a molded insulating member rotatably seated within said auxiliary recess, a pair of one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal members rigidly secured to the bottom wall of said main recess independently of each other, the terminal portions of said members extending downwardly through suitable openings in said base, the contact portion of oneof said members comprising a downwardly bent resilient arm whereby the same is normally biased into engagement with the contact portion of the other member, a portion of said arm being adapted to overlie said insulating member, said portion having a cam element formed integrally with the lower surface thereof, said insulating member having a cam element formed integrally with the upper surface thereof for cooperation with said first mentioned cam element to provide for disengagement of said contact portions in a predetermined rotary position of said insulating member, said insulating member having a noncircular axial opening formed therein, a shaft penetrating said opening and having a positive driving engagement with the walls thereof and said diaphragm being readily removable by broaching to provide for joint operation of said switch and another switch of like character by said shaft when said switches are mounted in tandem relation.

11. In combination, a switch comprising a molded insulating base of substantially cylindrical form having a relatively large cylindrical main recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, said base having an auxiliary cylindrical recess formed in the bottom wall of said main recess in concentric relationship to the latter and opening thereto, the bottom wall of said auxiliary recess having a relatively small cylindrical recess formed therein, whereby a relatively thin diaphragm is provided, a molded insulating member rotatably seated within said auxiliary recess, a pair of one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal members rigidly secured to the bottom wall of said main recess, the terminal portions of said members extending downwardly through suitable openings in said base, the contactportion of one of said members domprising a downwardly bent resilient arm whereby the same is normally baised into engagement with the contact portion of the other member, a portion of said arm being adapted to overlie said insulating member, said portion having a cam element formed integrally with the lower surface thereof, said insulating member having a cam element formed integrally with the upper surface thereof for cooperation with said firstgmentioned cam element to provide for disengagement of said contact portions in a predetermined rotary position of said insulating member, said insulating member having a noncircular axial opening formed therein, a shaft penetrating said opening and having a positive driving engagement with the walls thereof, said shaft having an extension and said diaphragm being removed by broaching to provide rotatable clearance for said shaft extension, and a second switch of the character aforementioned, said shaft extension having driving engagement with the insulating member of said second switch, the diaphragm of said second switch being permitted to remain intact.

12. In combination, a switch comprising a molded insulating base of substantially cylindrical form having a relatively large cylindrical main recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, said base having an auxiliary cylindrical recess formed in the bottom wall of said main recessin concentric relationship to the latter and opening thereto, the bottom wall of said auxiliary recess having a relatively small cylindrical recess formed therein, whereby a relatively thin diaphragm is provided, a molded insulating member rotatably seated within said auxiliary recess, a pair of one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal members rigidly secured to the bottom wall of said main recess, the terminal portions of said members extending downwardly through suitable openings in said base, the contact portion of one of said members comprising a downwardly bent resilient arm whereby the same is normally biased into engagement with the contact portion of the other member, a portion of said arm being adapted to overlie said insulating member, said portion having a cam element formed integrally with the lower surface thereof, said insulating member having a cam element formed integrally with the upper surface thereof for cooperation with said first mentioned cam element to provide for disengagement of said contact portions in a predetermined rotary position of said insulating member, said insulating member having a non-circular axial opening formed therein, a shaft penetrating said opening and having a positive driving engagement with the walls thereof, said shaft having an extension and said diaphragm being removed by broaching to provide rotatable clearance for said shaft extension, a second switch of the character aforementioned, said shaft extension having driving engagement with the insulating member of said second switch, the diaphragm of said second switch being permitted to remain intact, and means comprising a single metal housing member having portions embracing both of said switches to restrain the same against rotary and longitudinal displacement relatively to each other.

13. In a slow-make, slow-break switch for control of an alternating current circuit, in combination, a molded insulating base having a main reupper surface thereof, said cam surfaces being spaced different distances from the center of rotation' of said insulating member, two pairs of one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal members rigidly secured to the bottom wall of said main recess, the wiring terminal portions of said members penetrating said base and being exposed at the lower surface of .the latter, one contact portion of each pair of members comprising a downwardly bent resilient arm whereby the a same is normally biased into engagement with the other contact portion of such pair, said resilient arms having cam surfaces formed integrally with the lower surfaces thereof and arranged to overlie the upper surface of said insulating member whereby the latter is restrained against substantial upward displacement, said last mentioned cam surfacesbeing also spaced different distances from the center of rotation of said insulating member to provide for cooperation thereof with the respective cam surfaces first mentioned, for the purpose set forth.

14. In a slow-make, slow-break switch for control of an alternating current circuit, in combina tion, a substantially cylindrical molded insulating base having a substantially cylindrical main recess formed therein, said base having a relatively smaller substantially cylindrical recess formed in the bottom wall of said main recess concentric with and opening to the latter, a substantially cylindrical molded insulating member rotatably positioned within said relatively smaller recess and having the major portion of its uppersurface arranged in a plane substantially flush with said bottom wall, said insulating member having a centrally located substantially cylindrical portion extending to a plane substantially flush with the upper surface of said base, said insulating member being formed centrally thereof to accommodate a rotatable driving member therefor of suitable form, said insulating member having a pair of angularly spaced upwardly extending cam surfaces formed integrally with the upper surface thereof, said cam surfaces being spaced diiferent distances from the center of rotation of said insulating member, two pairs of contacts rigidly secured to the bottom wall of said main recess on opposite sides respectively of the center of rotation of said insulating member, one contact of each pair comprising a downwardly bent resilient arm whereby the same is normally biased into engagement with the other contact of such pair, said resilient arms having cam surfaces formed integrally with the lower surfaces thereof and respectively arranged at different distances from the center of rotation of said insulating member, the arrangement being such that said last mentioned cam surfaces are simultaneously engaged by the respective cam surfaces first mentioned in a given rotary position of said insulating member, whereby the contacts of said pairs are disengaged from each other, and each of said contacts having a wiring terminal portion penetrating said base and exposed at the lower surface of the latter.

15. A relatively small slow-make, slow-break switch of relatively high alternating current controlling capacity, said switch comprising a molded insulating base of substantially cylindrical form having a substantially cylindrical recess formed therein and opening to the upper surface thereof, a substantially cylindrical insulating member located Within said recess for rotation with respect thereto, two pairs of combined contact and wiring terminal members rigidly secured to the bottom wall of said recess and having the wiring terminal portions thereof exposed at the lower, surface of said base, the contact portions of each pair being arranged in overlapping relationship to each other and one contact portion of each pair including a resilient arm which is bent to bias such contact portion into a given normal relationship to the other contact portion of such pair, said insulating member having cam surfaces formed thereon at two points in angularly spaced relationship to each other at different distances respectively from the center of rotation of said insulating member, said resilient arms also having cam surfaces formed thereon at different distances from the center of rotation of said insulation member for cooperation with the respective cam surfaces on the latter, said cam surfaces being arranged to effect disengagement of said pairs of contact portions in a given rotary position of said insulating member and to effect engagement of said contact portions in all other rotary positions of said insulating member, and said cam surfaces being so formed and arranged with respect to each other as to insure against performance of other than the normal functions thereof.

16. As an article of manufacture, a one-piece combined contact and wiring terminal member for electric switches of the slow-make, slow-break type, said member consisting of a punched and stamped sheet metal piece, said piece having a perforated intermediate portion to be rigidly secured flatwise to a suitable insulating support, a perforated wiring terminal portion bent downwardly at substantially a right angle to said intermediate portion for exposure of the former at the lower surface of the support, and a resilient arm extending laterally from said intermediate portion substantially in the plane of the latter, said arm having a lateral extension adjacent to the free end thereof, said extension being angled downwardly whereby the same is normally adapted to engage a stationary contact of suitable form, the free end of said arm being of arcuate contour, and said free end being bent to extend downwardly and then upwardly, whereby a double-inclined cam surface is provided for cooperation with an actuating cam member of suitable form.

GEORGE J. MEUER.

CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION. Patent No. 2,172,596. September 12, 19 9.

GEORGE J. NEUER.

It is hereby certified that error appears in the printed specification of the above numbered patent requiring correction as follows: Page 1, second column, line 11 for "rotatry" read rotary; page 5, second column, line 2h for the word "surface" read surfaces; line 55, before "carrying" insert current; page Y, first column, line 6h, claim ll, for "baised" read biased; page 8, second column, line 26, claim 15, for "insulation" read insulating; and that the said Letters Patent should be readwith this correction therein that the same may conform to the record of the case in the Patent Office.

Signed and sealed this 50th day of January, A. D. 19LLO.

Henry Van Arsdale, (Seal) Acting Commissioner of Patents.

flfihm "Mmuwfl HWmgfg i m, 7, p44 WWW v CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION.

Patent No. 2,172,596. September 12, 1959. 1 1 GEORGE J. MEUER. I L

It is hereby certified that error appears in the printed specification of the above numbered patent requiring correction as follows: Page 1, sec- 0nd column,- line ILL, for "rotatry read rotary; page 5, second column, line R 2 for the word "surface read surfaces; line 55, before "carrying" insert current; pageT, first column, line 6h, claim 11, for "b i ed" read biased; page 8, second column, line 26, claim 15, for "insulation" read insulating; and that the said Letters Patent should be readwith this correction therein that the same may conform to the record of the case in the Patent Office. Signed and sealed this 50th day of January, A. D. 191 0.

Henry Van Arsdale, (Seal) Acting Commissioner of Patents. 

